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- FPHS Parent and Student Handbook (Online Version)
FPHS Parent & Student Handbook
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Address/Mission/Vision/Belief Statements
FORT PAYNE HIGH SCHOOL
Parent/Student Handbook
2023-2024
Fort Payne High School
201 45th Street NE
Fort Payne, Alabama 35967
Phone: 256-845-0535
Fax: 256-845-7868
Mission Statement
The mission of the Fort Payne High School Community is to prepare and empower students for both college and career in a 21st century learning environment and to ensure students will become responsible and successful citizens, workers, and leaders in our community, city, state, and nation.
Vision Statement
Because today’s schools shape tomorrow’s workforce, our vision is to create a community of life-long learners focused on continuous improvement.
Belief Statements
- We believe students, parents, faculty, staff, and community members are accountable and responsible for advancing the school's mission.
- We believe it is important for students to develop positive character traits which promote personal responsibility and accountability.
- We believe all students can learn and must take an active and responsible role in the learning process.
- We believe it is essential for students to attend school every day in a safe, secure, and supportive learning environment.
- We believe it is essential for students to attend school every day in a safe, secure, and supportive learning environment where teachers have high expectations for all students and where students have an active role in their education through both extra-curricular and academic activities.
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FPHS Contact Information
Fort Payne High School Contact Information
High School Office: 256-845-0535
FPHS Cafeteria: 256-845-4539
Position School Staff E-Mail Address
Principal Scott Timmons stimmons@fpcsk12.com
Assistant Principal Jeff Boatwright jboatwright@fpcsk12.com
Assistant Principal Steve Sparks ssparks@fpcsk12.com
Assistant Principal Jackie Jennings jjennings@fpcsk12.com
Bookkeeper Carol Hazell chazell@fpcsk12.com
School Secretary Kelly Vezertzis kvezertzis@fpcsk12.com
Guidance Counselor Melissa Coker mcoker@fpcsk12.com
Guidance Counselor Amanda Varnadore avarnadore@fpcsk12.com
Guidance Secretary Jeri Weatherly jweatherly@fpcsk12.com
School SRO Patrick Jenkins pjenkins@fpcsk12.com
Librarian Amy Fischer afischer@fpcsk12.com
School Nurse Kelly Ellis kellis@fpcsk12.com
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Academic Awards
ACADEMIC AWARDS
Awards and Honors involving academic averages will be based on academic courses only. These awards include valedictorian, salutatorian, Junior Marshals, and National Honor Society. To be considered for these awards, juniors must have taken or be taking twelve (12) academic courses; seniors must have taken or be taking sixteen (16) academic courses. The Presidential Academic Fitness award is given to seniors having a 90 or above numeric with core GPA.
Valedictorian and salutatorian are determined at the end of the first term of the senior year. If the average is within one thousandth to fifty thousandth of a point, consideration may be given to the number of academic courses completed and the time when the courses are completed. The end result may be that a tie will be declared.
Academic courses are defined as follows: English, Social Studies, Mathematics, Science, and Foreign Language (refer to the change listed under the “Honors Endorsement” section that will affect the 2023-24 Freshmen class as it relates to the foreign language class). Class standings will be computed only for the determination of awards, for admission to college, etc. Cumulative GPA will be determined at the end of each term and printed on report cards. In order to be eligible for Valedictorian or Salutatorian a student must have been enrolled at Fort Payne High School for three consecutive terms beginning their junior year. The student must have earned a minimum of 12 credits or 10 credits if enrolled in dual enrollment classes from Fort Payne High School by the end of the first term of their Senior Year. Grades earned in a Home School or school not accredited by the State Department of Education will not be considered in determining Valedictorian, Salutatorian or other academic awards.
PROVIDING INDIVIDUAL ASSESSMENT RESULTS IN A LANGUAGE THAT PARENTS CAN UNDERSTAND
Fort Payne High School will provide individual academic achievement results and interpretation of the results in a language that the parent can understand at the parent’s request. For additional information regarding this subject please contact your school Guidance Counselor.
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Transfer of Credit
TRANSFER OF CREDIT
The Fort Payne City Board of Education wishes to provide a fair and equal method of transferring credits to the schools in the Fort Payne City System. The following procedures will be used in determining the transfer of credits from State Department accredited, non-accredited and Home school settings.
TRANSFER FROM ACCREDITED SCHOOLS
A student transferring to a school in the Fort Payne City system from a public or non-public school accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the Alabama State Board of Education will have all credits and current class/grade placement accepted without validation upon the receipt of an official transcript(s) from the sending school.
TRANSFERS FROM NON-ACCREDITED SCHOOLS/SCHOOL SETTING(S)
Any school/school setting not accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the Alabama State Department of Education shall be considered a non-accredited school for the purpose of transfer of class/grade credit.
To transfer credits and/or determine the appropriate class/grade placement of a student transferring to a school in the Fort Payne City School System from a non-accredited school/school setting, the following procedures shall be implemented by the receiving school:
- Credit for all elective courses shall be transferred without validation.
- Credit for core courses (i.e., English, mathematics, science, and social studies) shall be transferred as follows: a. Using all records (i.e., official transcripts, notarized statements of credits) and any nationally standardized test available, the principal or his designee shall determine the student’s appropriate placement and notify the student and his parents(s)/guardian(s). b. If the parent(s)/guardian(s) agree with the placement decision, the student shall be assigned to the classes and/or grade agreed upon.
- Contested credit for core courses (i.e., English, mathematics, science, and social studies) shall be transferred as follows: a. If the parent(s)/guardian(s) disagree with the placement decision, the principal or his/her designee shall supervise the administration of the school’s most recent semester or term exam for each prerequisite core course in which the parent/guardian is requesting enrollment starting with the 9th grade exams. For each test the student passes as determined by the school grading scale, the student shall be placed in the next level core course and credit shall be transferred for prerequisite courses. b. For any test the student fails, his/her placement shall be as originally recommended by school officials and no credit is transferred for the prerequisite course in that subject.
- In the event of controversial records/transcripts and/or the absence of any official or notarized records/transcripts, the student shall take placement tests consisting of the school’s previous semester/term exams for core courses starting with 9th grade courses if in high school. If below the ninth grade, the test may start two grade levels below the “age appropriate” grade for the child.
- All students will be given the opportunity to take the ACT during the spring semester of their junior year.
- Except in case of a bona fide change of residence or other circumstances equally valid for making an exception, a student is not eligible to graduate from Fort Payne High School unless he/she has been in continuous attendance therein during the entire high school year immediately preceding the date of graduation. If enrollment is approved by the Superintendent of Education or Board of Education of a twelfth-grade student who wishes to become a candidate for graduation at the end of the year, Fort Payne High School will require approval in writing of the transfer and the student’s candidacy for graduation from the principal of the school from which the student has withdrawn. The letter of approval together with any necessary memoranda should be filed with the transcript of the student’s record from the discharging school. A student meeting the requirements for graduation and in good standing in the school he/she left will not be required to take additional credit(s) at Fort Payne High School, but must meet the remaining requirement for Graduation at Fort Payne High School. In case of doubt as to procedure or appropriate action in such cases, either or both of the principals of the schools concerned should discuss the matter with the SDE.
- Grades earned in a Home School or school not accredited by the State Department of Education will not be considered in determining Valedictorian, Salutatorian, or other academic awards.
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Athletic Eligibility
ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY
All traditional and non-traditional students at Fort Payne High School will follow the rules and regulations set forth by the Alabama High School Athletic Association, the National Federation of High Schools, local board policy and athletic handbook policies. You may refer to the following website for policies from the AHSAA: http://www.ahsaa.com/
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High School Instructional Program
HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM
Fort Payne High School provides approximately 1,000 students with the opportunities to develop academic, personal, social, and career awareness through a comprehensive curriculum. The goal of the Fort Payne City School System is to prepare each student to be college and career ready as he/she graduates from high school.
Students entering high school have the opportunity to select a course of study based on their career interests. Some restrictions may apply to the selection of a curriculum based on the academic performance and ability of a student, as well as the availability of particular courses.
The College Preparatory curriculum provides students with the opportunity to take advanced courses in language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and foreign languages. This curriculum consists of Honors Classes, Advanced Placement (AP), Dual Enrollment (DE) courses, and Early College. The Early College, Dual Enrollment and AP courses allow students to complete college-level studies while in high school. These students have excelled in high school, have a high interest in the subject area, and are college bound. Students are encouraged to request the academic requirements for admission from the colleges they wish to attend. This will help to provide a guide for students when choosing Dual Enrollment, Advanced Placement and Early College courses.
The Career Tech Preparatory curriculum prepares students for advanced courses required by two-year technical, community colleges, and four-year colleges through a blending of traditional academics and technical courses. This program is designed to be as academically challenging as College Prep while ensuring that students are properly prepared to meet the demands of technical schools, two or four-year colleges/universities, and/or the technical job market. Articulated college credit may be issued in many career technical classes if a student makes a grade of 85 or higher. (Students may apply for articulated credit upon enrollment at a junior college.) Courses listed in our Course Catalog are included in a comprehensive list of all courses taught in the Fort Payne City School System. Additional courses may be offered through ACCESS (Alabama Connecting Classrooms, Educators, and Students Statewide), Northeast Alabama Community College or other virtual learning providers. Information about virtual learning opportunities can be obtained at the school. If a student opts to take a virtual course for which an equivalent course is available at the school, he/she will be responsible for any textbook or other fees that may be involved in the course.
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Graduation Requirements
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
CIVICS EXAM
The ALSDE requires that all students take and pass a Civics test prior to graduating. The test consists of 100 multiple choice questions and is given during the time the student is taking the required U.S. Government class or after completion of the course. The student must score 60 or above. If the student scores below 60 on the first attempt, FPHS will allow the student to take the test a second time.
FAFSA – Alabama Free Application for Federal Student Aid
The state of Alabama requires high school seniors to complete FAFSA or satisfy an opt-out waiver option as part of the graduating senior’s transition into postsecondary education, training, or the workforce. FPHS will provide support to students and parents to complete this process.
COLLEGE AND CAREER READINESS
Earning one CCR indicator will be part of the Alabama High School Graduation Requirements beginning with the graduation Class of 2028. To be College and Career Ready (CCR), a student must earn a credential in at least one of the eight indicators listed in the table below, per the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE).
The following are local endorsements that go beyond the requirements
for the Alabama High School Diploma
LOCAL DIPLOMA ENDORSEMENTS (Not a requirement for graduation) Students have the opportunity to add on a local diploma endorsement (not a requirement for graduation). Those local endorsements are listed below:
Honors Endorsement
- Pass all required coursework for The Alabama High School Diploma
- Complete two credits of honors, AP or Dual Enrollment in all four core subjects
- Complete four credits of math or equivalent to include Algebra II w/Trig
- Complete two credits of foreign language in the same language - Beginning with the Freshmen class of 2023-24 (graduating class of 2027), Foreign Language will no longer be required for an Honors Endorsement Diploma. It will still remain an Honors Endorsement Diploma requirement for the graduation classes of 2024, 2025, and 2026.
Career Technological Endorsement
- Pass all required course work for The Alabama High School Diploma
- Complete three CTE courses within the same career path
ONLINE EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES AT FPHS THROUGH THE FPVS
Fort Payne High School offers eligible students (GPA of 3.25 or greater and in grades 9-12) the option of enrolling in online (virtual) classes part-time or full-time. These classes are a part of Fort Payne’s Virtual School (FPVS) program with three types of online options available:
- Online Local Option - these are FPHS classes taught by FPHS teachers through the Schoology learning management system.
- Online Dual Enrollment Option – these classes are offered by colleges and taught by various high school and college instructors in the region through a learning management system.
- ACCESS Distance Learning Option – these classes are offered by the state and taught by various teachers throughout the state, and require physical attendance on campus to complete quizzes and exams.
Students enrolled in these classes will be required to follow FPVS guidelines found on the Fort Payne High School website.
TION STANDARDS - REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADE PLACEMENT (HOMEROOMS)
In order for a student to be classified as a member of a particular class (i.e., Freshmen, Sophomore, Junior, or Senior) they must have earned the required number and type of units as specified below:
- SOPHOMORE CLASSIFICATION- 6
- JUNIOR CLASSIFICATION- 13
- SENIOR CLASSIFICATION- 20
This includes passing the four (4) required courses each year. (English, History, Math, and Science)
DRESS CODE FOR GRADUATION EXERCISES
Graduation from high school is the culmination of many years of study and hard work. It is a time that deserves the dignity of a formal ceremony. In order to make our appearance as uniform and neat as possible, all seniors will wear the following attire to the graduation ceremony.
- Females- Black skirt and white blouse or black dress with black dress
- Males- White collared shirt, necktie, black dress pants, and black dress
The diploma, class night, cap and gown cost will be $90.00 per student.
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Online and Technical Schools
ONLINE EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES AT FPHS THROUGH THE FPVS
Fort Payne High School offers eligible students (GPA of 3.25 or greater and in grades 9-12) the option of enrolling in online (virtual) classes part-time or full-time. These classes are a part of Fort Payne’s Virtual School (FPVS) program with three types of online options available:
- Online Local Option - these are FPHS classes taught by FPHS teachers through the Schoology learning management system.
- Online Dual Enrollment Option – these classes are offered by colleges and taught by various high school and college instructors in the region through a learning management system.
- ACCESS Distance Learning Option – these classes are offered by the state and taught by various teachers throughout the state, and require physical attendance on campus to complete quizzes and exams.
Students enrolled in these classes will be required to follow FPVS guidelines found on the Fort Payne High School website.
DEKALB COUNTY TECHNICAL SCHOOL
Fort Payne High School students may also attend the DeKalb County Technical School in Rainsville. Students attend the Technical School for two semesters and will obtain two career tech credits per year. The following courses are offered:
- Automobile Body Repair
- Automobile Mechanics
- Clothing Production/Services
- Cosmetology
- Drafting
- Healthcare Technology
- Masonry
- Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
- Welding
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Fee Schedule
FEE SCHEDULE
A fee is required for certain courses to assist with the cost of equipment, maintenance, and to purchase materials. Students who are not financially able to pay fees may apply for a fee waiver. Fee waiver applications are available at the high school. (A copy of the fee schedule is located in the student handbook.)
Per Term
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Grading and Semester Exams
GRADING PROCEDURES
There are four grading sessions per school year, two each semester. A mid-session grade is given to each student in the middle of each grading period. Grade Reports are given to students by the second Monday following the end of the grading period.
Grades for each grading period shall be based on five or more evaluations. These grades are divided into the categories of major and minor which reflect their weight on the average. All core classes are weighted as follows:
- Honors core classes = Major categories 70% and minor categories 30% total weight of the semester average.
- Core Classes (non-honors) = Major categories 60% and minor categories 40% total weight of the semester average.
In grades 9 - 12, a final course examination will be given in each core subject. This examination will count 15% of the final course grade. Only term numerical grades will be recorded on a student's permanent record. All grades will be recorded numerically and will correspond to the following scale:
- A = 90 - 100
- B = 80 - 89
- C = 70 - 79
- D = 60 – 69
- F = 59 or below
- INC = Incomplete
- WF = Withdrawal Failing
END-OF-COURSE/SEMESTER EXAMINATION POLICY
The policy of the Fort Payne City Board of Education shall be as follows concerning End-of-Course/Semester Examinations.
- Students in grades nine through twelve will be required to take an end-of-course/semester exams in all English Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies and Foreign Language courses.
- End-of-course/semester exams will only be administered in those courses listed above.
- End-of-course/semester exams will count as 15% of the total grade in the course.
- All students in grades 9-12 have the opportunity to exempt the end-of-course/semester exam in their courses if all of the following criteria has been met by the end of the course:
- Holding a 90 average or above for the course and 3 or less excused absences.
- Holding an 80 average or above for the course and 2 or less excused absences.
- Holding a 70 average or above for the course and 1 or less excused absences.
- Holding any unexcused absences will disqualify the student from exemption.
- Field trips and quarantines will be excluded from the absent count calculation.
(College courses and virtual classes are an exception to the exemption policy and may require final exams).
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Guidance Office
GUIDANCE OFFICE
The Guidance Office is open to all students. You are encouraged to come by for information concerning courses to take in high school that will prepare you for college, technical school, or work. Vocational information is available and you are invited to study any fields related to your interests.
Each student is responsible for knowing how many credits he/she has earned and for clearing any deficiencies required for graduation. The guidance counselors are available to help students with these responsibilities.
The counselors are available to help students interpret test results, apply for admission to college, register for college admission tests (ACT and SAT), and register for financial aid. The Guidance Office is also the place to go when you have problems that you want to talk over. Making an appointment is helpful, but not necessary.
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Honors/Dual Enrollment/ACCESS/Library/Credit Recovery/Transcripts
HONORS/DUAL ENROLLMENT/ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAMS
Because of the difficult curriculum of the honors/dual enrollment/advanced placement programs it is more equitable for the honors students' grades to be weighted when computing class rank, determining eligibility for National Honor Society membership, computing Grade Point Average (GPA) and determining the Honor Roll. All dual enrollment core classes will be considered honors classes. The following system will be used: (1) Numerical Average: Before computing the total numerical average, ten (10) points will be added to each term honors/advanced placement grade, except for grades below 60. (2) GPA: For computing the students' GPA, the following scale will be used:
Honors/DE/AP Regular
90 - 100 - 5 90 - 100 - 4
80 - 89 - 4 80 - 89 - 3
70 - 79 - 3 70 - 79 - 2
Below 60 - 0 60 - 69 - 1
The Honor Roll for each grading period will be determined using the following GPAs.
Honors/DE/AP Regular
4.0 - A Average 4.0 - A Average
3.0+ - B Average 3.0+ - B Average
The grades recorded on midterm reports, grade sheets, grade reports and permanent records will be those ACTUALLY EARNED in the honors/advanced placement courses. They are to be noted as "Honors" or "AP" courses on all records. This system will reward the students who accept the challenge of advanced courses while preventing the appearance of inflated grades on midterm reports or grade reports. The grade will be given the proper weight and recorded in the PowerSchool grade reporting section.
Before computing scholastic averages, add 10 points for each semester honors/advanced placement grade to the numerical average. The GPA will be computed as: A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, F=0."
ACCESS DISTANCE LEARNING AND WEB-BASED COURSES
ACCESS Distance Learning (Alabama Connecting Classrooms, Educators, and Students Statewide) an education initiative of the Alabama State Department of Education, provides opportunities and options for Alabama high school students to engage in Advanced Placement (AP), elective, and other courses to which they may not otherwise have access. Fort Payne High School will offer both the Distance Learning and the Web Based component of Access Learning. Students must be at least a freshman and be independent learners, possess good computer skills, and have at least a 3.25 GPA. Credit restrictions apply.
DUAL ENROLLMENT
Fort Payne High School and Northeast State Community College are in a partnership to offer FPHS sophomores, juniors and seniors courses for college credit. Select courses are taught on the high school campus. Information is provided to all qualifying students at the time of the high school’s course registration.
INSTRUCTIONAL MEDIA CENTER--LIBRARY
Fort Payne High School Library has an excellent collection of books, e-books, and magazines. Please follow these rules when using the library:
- Students are free to come to the library before school and at break.
- A student MUST have a key card from a teacher in order to use the library during class time.
- Any library material must be signed for in order to be taken from the library.
- Books may be checked out for 14 days and may be renewed for an additional 14 days if needed. It is the student’s responsibility to renew books before they are late. The maximum book limit is 2 books per student.
- A fine of .10 cents per school day per book will be charged for overdue books.
- E-books may be checked out for 7 days and may be renewed for an additional 7 days if needed.
- Students must pay for lost or damaged books and materials for which they are responsible.
- The library software program, Destiny Quest, allows students to have their own personal accounts. To access FPHS Library's website, type destiny.fpcsk12.com in the address bar on your screen. At the "Welcome to Fort Payne City School District" page, select the Fort Payne High School Link to open up the card catalog. In order to access your personal account and to recommend and review books, check out e-books, and renew the books that you have on loan, you will be required to enter your username and password:
- Username: First and Last name initial with student #
- Password: School-assigned Google password
- The library will be closed the last week of school for the annual inventory.
SUMMER SCHOOL/CREDIT RECOVERY
Summer school credit recovery is based upon the board approved high school credit recovery plan. Summer Credit Recovery consists of 20 instructional days in which any student may recover as many as two core instructional credits. Excessive absences will result in dismissal from the credit recovery program. The student must meet all requirements based on the Alabama Course of Study and any requirement(s) designated by the teacher that assigned the failing grade.
TRANSCRIPTS
Transcripts given to students will be stamped UNOFFICIAL. Fort Payne High School is careful to abide by the requirements of the Buckley Amendment, concerning confidentiality. Transcripts will be sent electronically through Parchment or can be mailed upon request.
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Bell Schedule/Cafeteria/Check-Outs/School Closings
The bells signify the beginning and end of a block. Students are expected to be in class at the beginning of the block. The door to each teacher’s room will be closed when the bell rings to begin class. Any student still in the hall when the bell rings without a permissible excuse is to be considered tardy and will be sent to the Assistant Principal’s office.
FPHS BELL SCHEDULE
BLOCK
TIME
0 (Advisory)
7:45 – 8:10
1st
8:15 – 9:50
2nd
9:55 – 11:30
3rd (Lunch)
11:35 – 1:35
4th
1:40 – 3:15
CAFETERIA
The cafeteria staff works hard to provide you with good lunches. The cafeteria is full self-serve. The following rules make lunch more enjoyable for everyone.
- All students are required to report to the cafeteria during their assigned lunch period and to remain in the cafeteria until the end of the lunch period.
- Do not cut line (there are two serving lines).
- Do not take more than one serving of each item (extra servings=extra charges).
- Sit one person per seat.
- Do not eat or drink from another student’s tray.
- Return trays to designated area.
- Do not take any food or drinks outside the cafeteria.
- Keep the cafeteria as clean as possible.
- No throwing of food.
- Do not use another students I.D. number.
- Visit restroom and lockers promptly on the way to the cafeteria or on the way back to class in order not to be tardy for lunch or class.
The price of lunch is determined by the Board of Education. Students may purchase extra items anytime during lunch at the posted prices.
Our cafeteria supports the concept of Offer vs. Serve. A "Type A" lunch includes a bread item, milk, a meat and two different vegetables and/or fruits. Students are to choose a minimum of three items from the offering. Normally, the cafeteria staff tries to offer two meat items and several vegetables and fruit items in addition to a salad bar and a potato bar.
Ft. Payne City Schools participates in the National Child Nutrition Program. Students interested in applying for free or reduced lunches will receive an application the first day of school.
CHECK OUT PROCEDURES
Students will not be permitted to leave school before the dismissal of school without permission of the Principal or Assistant Principal. Parents, guardians or a member of the immediate family must come into the office and sign the student out. Students are to come to the office before homeroom in the morning with a note from their parent or guardian stating the time and the specific reason for checking out. Students will report to the office at the checkout time and sign the Checkout Book (blue). A listing of all students checking out will be published in the morning Wildcat Report. The Administration reserves the right to require parent/legal guardian to come to campus for student check-out.
Students who drive will have their parents call the school office between 7:30 am and 8:30 am to verify checkouts 14 for that day. We require a doctor's appointment card or note from the doctor's office for all medical and dental appointments. The Principal or Assistant Principal shall determine whether the absence from that part of the school day shall be “excused” or “unexcused.” It is important to remember that make-up work will only be permitted for “excused” checkouts, and the student will still be considered absent from the classes missed. Students scheduled for participation in school activities or events (athletics, band, cheerleading, prom, beauty pageants, club trips or any other school event) CANNOT CHECK OUT THE DAY OF THE EVENT AND STILL PARTICIPATE.
EMERGENCY CHECK OUT
We realize that it is sometimes necessary for students to check out of school because of illness. Any disease or condition that a student has should be noted on the student's registration form. If a student becomes too ill to go to class, a parent or guardian will be called to come for the student. A student that is feeling ill should report to the nurse or contact the office immediately. STUDENTS ARE NOT TO STAY IN THE RESTROOM WHEN ILL (this will be considered skipping). Students are not to call home and tell parents to pick them up. The Principal or Assistant Principal will contact the parent or guardian. Any student who leaves without permission of the Principal or Assistant Principal will be considered as "skipping" class. The emergency checkouts will be published 4th block each day. It will be the responsibility of the student to make up missed assignments when they return to school.
TEMPORARY CLOSING AND EARLY DISMISSAL OF SCHOOLS
The superintendent of schools has the authority to temporarily close schools or dismiss early in the event of severe weather, inadequate heat or other conditions which threaten the safety and well-being of the children.
When the decision is made to close schools, an announcement will be made on the local radio stations and TV stations as early as possible. If early dismissal of school is necessary, the local radio and TV stations will be notified. The superintendent will also use the School Notification System (SNS) to notify parents. The School Notification System (SNS) will contact all guardians by phone to notify them of an early dismissal. It is imperative that you keep your SNS accounts up-to-date with current phone numbers at all times. Parents should have an alternate plan in the event schools do close early.
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Clubs/Behavior/Lockers/Parking/Restrooms
CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR-CLASSROOM COURTESIES
Students are to practice good behavior in the classroom, keep noise down, not sit on top of furniture and refrain from defacing or abusing classroom furniture. Continual violations of classroom courtesies will result in strong disciplinary action (ISS, A-School, and suspension).
ELECTIONS
The student council will conduct student elections for class officer, homecoming, and student council. Each club will hold club elections. Senior Who's Who will be conducted by the senior class officers. This election is different from others in that a student is only allowed to choose one position (if they win more than one). Also, this election is determined by plurality.
CLUBS
A student is only permitted to be president of one club. A student is only permitted to be an officer of two clubs (presidency counting as one of these offices). A club sponsor has the authority to remove any officer from their position if they do not fulfill their duties.
GYMNASIUM
Students are not to use the gym unless a teacher is present to supervise the activity. Students found in the gym during activity period will be considered "skipping class" as there is not a teacher assigned to the gym during activity period. All students are encouraged to keep all areas of the gym neat and clean. As the gym must be used for functions other than PE and athletics, the following rules apply:
- Students are to be respectful in assembly programs. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action.
- Students are required to attend all assembly programs for which there is no charge.
HALL AND SIDEWALK BEHAVIOR
Behavior in the halls and on the sidewalks should always be in good taste. Students are not to block passage in the halls or on the sidewalks. Students are not to be in the halls during class periods unless they have a proper pass. Students are not to run in the halls or on the sidewalks. Students are also reminded to watch what they say in the halls and on the sidewalks.
LOCKERS
Students are not required to rent an individual locker. Lockers are available to students for a charge of $5.00 per year and can be rented when students pick up their schedules or enroll. All books and personal articles should be placed in the lockers when not in use. IT IS UNWISE TO TELL ANYONE YOUR LOCKER COMBINATION. Mechanical problems with any locker are to be reported to the Assistant Principal immediately. Students are to visit lockers before school, during break, between class (if necessary) and after school. VISITING A LOCKER IS NOT AN EXCUSE FOR BEING TARDY TO CLASS. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCE SHOULD STUDENTS LEAVE VALUABLE ITEMS IN THEIR LOCKER.
School officials may inspect or search desks and/or lockers when there is reasonable cause to believe that articles kept there may endanger other individuals in the school or those articles are in violation of the law or regulations of the Board of Education or school.
It is not necessary to visit lockers between every class change. Plan ahead; get books for your first two classes, at break get books for periods three and four, etc. Students who "jam" their locks are subject to disciplinary action. All combinations are changed each summer, repairs made, and all lockers are inspected by the Principal or Assistant Principal before school begins in the fall. O
ON CAMPUS STUDENT PARKING
- Only licensed drivers are permitted to drive a vehicle on campus. Students must have a Fort Payne City Schools Drug Testing Consent and Release form signed by parents and the student on file before a parking decal will be issued.
- Drivers must present a valid driver's license and information about their vehicle to obtain a parking permit. All vehicles a student may drive need to be listed.
- Each student is required to purchase a parking decal if a vehicle is to be parked on campus. The price of the parking decal is $5.00. The decal must be placed on the designated area of the vehicle.
- Decals will be issued to licensed drivers only. If a licensed driver buys a permit for another student, both students shall be subject to disciplinary action. Students driving in violation of the law may be reported to the police.
- Immediately on entering the campus, students are to park, lock and leave their vehicles. The parking lot is off limits to students during the school day, including break, lunch and activity period. Students leaving for work should do so promptly at the end of their last class.
- If a student must go to his/her car during the school day, he/she must receive a pass from the Principal, not a teacher.
- A student may drive a motorcycle on campus providing he is a licensed operator. Motorcycles must be registered but are not required to have a parking decal.
- Students must park in the numbered space that corresponds with the decal number issued through the office. (Student vehicles must be parked in the assigned parking space and remain there the entire school day) Any exceptions to this must be approved by the principal. Parking will be restricted behind the gym. There is to be no parking behind the lunchroom, third building, between the cafeteria and the gym or double-parking behind the gym.
- Students may not park in one lot for part of the school day, then move to another lot.
- Vehicles without decals will be fined $5.00.
- Parking in unspecified spaces is a violation and subject to a $5.00 fine.
- Speeding or reckless driving will result in disciplinary action. A student will be denied campus driving privileges.
- All fines are to be paid within one week of the violation or the driver faces suspension of campus driving privileges.
- All drivers must obey the STOP sign behind the gym. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action, including a $5.00 fine and/or suspension of campus driving privileges.
- The Principal or his designee may search student vehicles while on school property when there is reasonable cause to believe that a specific vehicle(s) contains articles that may endanger other individuals or are contrary to law or regulations of the school or Board.
REVOKING CAMPUS DRIVING AND PARKING PRIVILEGE
Student parking for students who drive to campus is considered a privilege. This privilege can be revoked if students have excessive “Unexcused Absences.” Any student who has 5 unexcused absences will be considered to have their parking privileges revoked.
If a student’s parking privileges are revoked and the student continues to park on campus, their vehicle will be subject to be towed at the recommendation of the school resource officer or designated school administrator.
RESTROOMS
Students may use restrooms between class changes if they can do so without being late to class. Otherwise, they should be used at break, before and after school. During class, students may go to the restroom only if they have the proper emergency pass. STUDENTS ARE NOT TO STAY IN THE RESTROOM WHEN SICK, BUT ARE TO REPORT TO THE OFFICE IMMEDIATELY.
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School Trips/Supplies/Fees/Telephone/Drills/Insurance/Pictures
SCHOOL RELATED TRIPS
All school related trips must be cleared by the Principal at least one week in advance. Students are subject to all school rules and regulations and the code of conduct while on school related trips and will not be allowed to check out until the proper time approved by the Principal. Permission forms must be signed by a parent/guardian and returned to the teacher prior to the trip.
SCHOOL SUPPLIES
School supplies (pens, pencils, paper, poster board, etc.) are sold by the Science Club in Room 208 before school and after school. Many faculty members also sell pens and pencils for the Science Club.
FEE SCHEDULE
A fee is required for certain courses to assist with the cost of equipment, maintenance, and to purchase materials. Students who are not financially able to pay fees may apply for a fee waiver. Fee waiver applications are available at the high school. (A copy of the fee schedule is located in the student handbook.)
PER TEAM
Class
Amount
Anatomy or Genetics
$20.00
Agri-science Education
$30.00
Advanced Placement Course
$20.00
Chemistry Lab
$15.00
Cooperative Education and Seminar
$15.00
Driver Education
$30.00
Health Science
$30.00
Hospitality & Tourism, Culinary I and Culinary II
$30.00
Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security
$20.00
Coordinated Studies
$20.00
Physics Lab
$10.00
Commerce and Information Technology
$25.00
Career Preparedness
$15.00
Art Lab
$10.00
Dance
$5.00
Teaching Careers
$15.00
SELLING ITEMS ON CAMPUS/BUSES
Students are not permitted to sell unapproved items on campus or school buses. All items are subject to confiscation and the student is subject to disciplinary action.
TELEPHONE
Students are to use the phone only for emergencies. It is not to be used during class, study hall, lunch and activity periods. Those students who violate this privilege will be subject to disciplinary action.
YEARBOOK PICTURES
The yearbook staff will be responsible for planning club pictures with each club responsible for the behavior of its members. The club sponsor should be present at the time of taking the picture to assist in supervision. Students are reminded to conduct themselves in an honorable manner. No obscene gestures or intentionally distracting movements by a student will be allowed. Proper attire is to be worn. Students are expected to cooperate with the yearbook photographer by being attentive and facing the camera.
Violations of this policy will lead to disciplinary action for the individual student. If no acceptable copy of the group picture is available because of a student's violation of this policy, that club will forfeit its picture position in the yearbook.
The yearbook staff is not obligated to remake any club or group photograph. If a remake is taken, the offending student will not be included in the photograph and will be required to pay any charges incurred.
SCHOOL INSURANCE
A school accident insurance policy is available for all students. Students can sign up for the policy at the beginning of the school year. Students have an option of two forms of school insurance. They are as follows:
- School-time coverage
- Round the clock coverage
If you wish to purchase the insurance, checks should be made payable to the insurance company. Please read the policy benefits carefully. If you do not have family health coverage, you may want to consider this service.
TORNADO, FIRE and INTRUDER DRILLS
Tornado and fire drills are held regularly to develop safety practices that will help students move quickly and in an orderly manner to pre-designated safety areas during an emergency. The procedure for tornado and fire drills will be posted in each classroom. Teachers will review these procedures with the students during the year. Intruder drills will also be held at least once a year.
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Acknowledgment Forms
Acknowledgment Forms Section – Requiring Signatures
Annual Notification Regarding
School Provided or Sponsored Mental Health Services
Mental Health Services
The school system provides or sponsors the following mental health services.
- Large group guidance - includes school counselor or professional visiting the classroom to discuss topics such as bullying, class scheduling, stress management, test anxiety or guest speakers to discuss good choices, substance abuse prevention, etc.
- Small group guidance - includes small group of students with school counselor or professional to discuss topics such as test anxiety, grief, healthy coping skills, etc.
- Mentoring - Peer Helpers work with students in school on topics such as friendships, healthy relationships, anger management, and anxiety.
- Assessments or Surveys - includes questionnaires provided to students related to social behaviors, feelings, etc.
- Crisis intervention - short-term, immediate assistance by school counselor or professional for a specific situation.
- School-Based Mental Health - On-going counseling services by school professionals or private practitioners in the school setting. Note: Parent or legal guardian’s permission will be obtained during an intake meeting before services are provided.
Review of Materials
You may request to review any materials used in the guidance and counseling programs available to students by contacting the student’s principal.
Information Regarding How to Allow, Limit, or Prevent Your Child’s Participation in Mental Health Services
Under Alabama law, no student under the age of fourteen may participate in ongoing school counseling services including, but not limited to, mental health services, unless (1) the student’s parent or legal guardian has submitted a written opt-in granting permission for the student to participate or (2) there is an imminent threat to the health of the student or others.
Therefore, if your child is under fourteen, they will only be allowed to participate in mental health services if you opt-in. If you would like the school system to be able to offer and/or provide mental health services to your child, you must opt-in for each service listed for them to participate in that service.
Even if you do not opt-in to mental health services, your child may be provided mental health services if there is an imminent threat to their health or others. School employees may determine in their discretion whether such an imminent threat exists and provide any mental health services they deem necessary under the circumstances.
Parent of students with disabilities: Please note that the opt-in process is not applicable to any school counseling services or “mental health services” contained in a student’s IEP or §504 plan. Consent for those services will be obtained and information regarding your child’s mental health services will be provided through the usual special education process.
FPMS & FPHS Digital Device Release Form
*Only Fort Payne Middle School and Fort Payne High School students and parents need to complete, sign and return this form.
Please check off to confirm that you received each of the following on your digital device.
_____ 1 Digital Device ………………………………………….. Barcode #: _____________________
_____ 1 AC Power Adapter
_____ 1 Protection Cover
All items must be returned on the date of separation from Fort Payne City Schools due to withdrawal, expulsion, or graduation. I understand that I will be charged for any missing equipment or cables.
Student
- I have read the Fort Payne City Schools Digital Device Acceptable Use Agreement.
- I agree to comply with the Fort Payne City Schools Digital Device Acceptable Use Agreement and the Yearly Usage Fee described within.
- I understand that I may lose my digital device privileges as a result of my inappropriate behavior, and may be financially responsible for intentional damage or avoidable loss of the Fort Payne City Schools’ digital device.
Student - Print your name here: _____________________________________
Student - Sign and date here: _____________________________________, date: _________
Parent
- I have read the Fort Payne City Schools Digital Device Acceptable Use Agreement.
- I understand the procedures and requirements to which my student must comply as shown in the Fort Payne City Schools Acceptable Agreement.
- I agree to comply with the Fort Payne City Schools Digital Device Acceptable Use Agreement and the Yearly Usage Fee described within.
- I accept responsibility for any damage or neglect that may result from my student using a Fort Payne City Schools’ digital device, which may result in monetary charges, if the item was purchased with local funds.
- I understand that my student may lose his/her digital device privileges and/or incur financial fees as a result of inappropriate behavior, damage, neglect or loss of the Fort Payne City Schools’ digital device.
Parent/Guardian – Print your name here: ________________________________
Parent/Guardian- Sign and date here: ________________________________, date: _____________
Current Address: ______________________________________________________________________
Phone Number: ____________________________
Fort Payne City School Student Code of Conduct and Student Handbook Acknowledgement Form
Homeroom Teacher_____________________________________________
I, _________________________________________, enrolled in Fort Payne City Schools
(name of student) and my parent(s)/guardian(s) hereby acknowledge by our signatures that we have received and read or had read to us, the foregoing Code of Conduct and Student Handbook.
Signed________________________________________________________
Student
Signed________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian
Signed________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian
Date__________________________________________________________
Note: The student is to sign the above statement. If the student lives with both parents, both parents are to sign the statement. If the student lives with only one parent or guardian, only one is required to sign with the student.
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I give permission for my child to be photographed, videotaped, or named in newspaper articles, journals, video presentations, etc., which involve school related events and/or activities.
______ Yes ______ No
Signed ___________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian
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I agree to adhere to the rules regarding the cell phone and electronic device policy.
_______ Yes ______ No
Signed ___________________________________________________________
Student
Date _____________________________________________________________
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Student Acceptable Use Policy for Internet/Network Services
I have read the Student Acceptable Use Policy for Internet/Network Services and agree to abide by the provisions contained within the document. I understand that I can be disciplined if I violate the Student Acceptable Use Policy for Internet/Network Services. Such discipline may consist of the revocation of Internet/network access up to and including suspension, expulsion and/or legal action based on the seriousness of the violation.
Name (Print) _________________________________
Signature_____________________________________
School ______________________ Signature of Parent/Guardian ________________________ ____
Date _____________
Internet/Email Usage ________ Yes __________ No
*By choosing No your child will be excluded from Internet/Email resources even if these activities are an integral part of the educational activities being pursued at the school.
**Please have the student return it to the homeroom teacher
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COPPA and Online Resources Agreement
The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) requires websites to gain parent permission for users under the age of 13 and/or 18 before creating individual online accounts. Many educational sites used by Fort Payne City Schools require student accounts and, thus, parental permission. To view the “FPCS Approved Online Tools and Resources” list, go to the Parent Information Section on the District website.
I give permission for the school system to upload the basic directory information of my child in order to create an account on these educational websites.
_____Yes _____No
Student’s Name (print)__________________ Parent/Guardian Signature _________________________
Date ___________
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Video Conferencing Call Permissions
I give permission for my child to participate in group (class/school) video conference calls while in class/school during the 2022-2023 school year. I understand that this is for instructional purposes only, and that my child’s teacher or school administrator will be leading the session. Students will be visible to other participants in the video call. Students will be able to ask/answer questions during the video call.
_____Yes _____No
Student’s Name (print)__________________ Parent/Guardian Signature _________________________
Date ___________
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SCHOOL-PARENT COMPACT
_________________________ ________________________ _________________________
Principal Signature & Date Parent Signature & Date Student Signature & Date